Lethal to deer, Chronic Wasting Disease was first identified in the state in 2012. There is no cure for CWD, which damages the brains of large animals, including deer, moose and elk. Authorities in Pennsylvania routinely test dead or captured animals to track the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease.

The deer that tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease was killed in November on Interstate 99 after colliding with a vehicle. Authorities received confirmation that the year-and-a-half-old buck was infected with Chronic Wasting Disease on Christmas Eve.

Despite it deadly effects on deer, CWD is not known to be transmissible to humans. However, state officials have imposed special rules regarding deer for hunters and residents in areas were CWD-infected animals have been found. The consumption of meat from animals with Chronic Wasting Disease is not recommended.